PORTUGAL

Minimum Investment Amount

€500,000

Processing Time

3 - 8 Months

Key Residency Benefit

Visa Free Travel

Why Portugal? A Golden Gateway to Europe

Portugal, the westernmost country in Europe, is a top choice for investors seeking EU residency through the Golden Visa program. With a rich history of global influence — spanning former colonies in Africa, Brazil, Persia, Indochina, and the Malay Peninsula — Portugal stands today as one of the world’s most peaceful, welcoming, and globally connected nations.

Safe, Stable, and Internationally Friendly

Ranked among the safest countries in Europe, Portugal offers a high quality of life, low crime rates, and political stability. English is widely spoken in urban centers and tourist regions, making it an ideal destination for international investors and families.

Schengen Access & Eurozone Benefits

As a full member of the Schengen Area, Portugal allows visa-free travel across 25+ European countries. The country also adopted the Euro (€) in 2002, offering seamless financial integration with the EU.

Modern Economy with Cultural Soul

Portugal is evolving into a business-friendly hub, especially for innovation, tech, and sustainable tourism. Yet, it remains proud of its cultural roots — renowned worldwide for wine production, fresh seafood cuisine, historic architecture, and colorful festivals.

Ready to secure EU residency with a smart investment in Portugal?
Discover Golden Visa-eligible properties and learn how you can benefit from one of Europe’s most attractive residency-by-investment programs.

Portugal Golden Visa: Residency by Investment in Europe

The Portugal Golden Visa is a highly regarded residency-by-investment program designed for non-EU/EEA citizens seeking long-term residency in Europe. Launched in October 2012 by the Portuguese government, the program was created to attract foreign investment and stimulate economic growth. Since its inception, it has generated over €7.5 billion in international capital and remains one of the most sought-after programs in the world.

Applicants can choose from a variety of investment routes, including capital transfers and other qualifying assets. In return, investors are granted a residency permit that allows them to live, work, and study in Portugal, a country known for its high quality of life, affordable cost of living, and stable economy.

One of the program’s standout features is its global mobility advantage. Golden Visa holders gain visa-free access to 188 countries, including all Schengen Area member states.

The program also provides a path to permanent residency and citizenship. After five years of maintaining residency status, investors can apply for Portuguese citizenship and obtain a European Union passport. With its exceptional living standards, healthcare, and education systems, Portugal is increasingly becoming a top choice for global investors seeking both lifestyle and security

How to get the Portuguese Golden Visa

Capital Transfer

A capital transfer of at least €500,000 can be made toward research activities in Portugal, or €250,000 toward the preservation of national heritage. Unlike business-based routes that require employing staff and managing operations, these options involve direct financial contributions without the need to establish a company.

A capital transfer of at least €500,000 may also be made for the acquisition of units in investment funds or venture capital funds, intended for the capitalisation of companies. These companies must have a minimum maturity of five years at the time of investment, with at least 60% of the fund’s value invested in commercial entities based in Portugal.

Alternatively, an investment of €500,000 can be made through the creation of a commercial enterprise headquartered in Portugal, along with the creation of at least five permanent jobs.

Invest into funds

Capital Transfer – Investment Funds or Venture Capital

A capital transfer of €500,000 or more may be made into an investment fund or venture capital fund incorporated under Portuguese law. The fund must be dedicated to the capitalisation of companies with a maturity of at least five years at the time of investment. Additionally, 60% of the investment portfolio must be realised in commercial companies headquartered in Portugal.

Investment Options

Most Golden Visa investment routes require a minimum investment of €500,000.

However, new financing models have emerged that lower the initial capital outlay:

– A provider now offers a financing solution, lending the full €500,000 investment over a seven-year term at a cost of €168,000.
– This approach offers a cost-effective alternative to the €250,000 donation route, appealing to investors looking to minimise upfront capital requirements.

Profit-Generating Investment Opportunity

Currently, there is an investment structure that offers an upfront return of €101,000, which can be applied toward the €500,000 qualifying investment:

– Initial capital required: €399,000
– Additional loan facilities are available to cover up to €74,000, further reducing the upfront investment to €325,000
– This option not only qualifies for the Portugal Golden Visa, but also helps offset costs, including residency card fees and related expenses

Key Benefit of the Portuguese Golden Visa

The Portugal Golden Visa is a highly popular pathway to obtaining European Union citizenship. Investors become eligible to apply for Portuguese citizenship after five years of holding a valid Golden Visa.

As Portugal is a member of the European Union, acquiring Portuguese citizenship provides the investor and their family with full access to EU rights and benefits—including the freedom to live, work, and study anywhere within the EU. Additionally, Portuguese passport holders enjoy visa-free travel to 188 countries, offering exceptional global mobility.

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